Can PRP Therapy Help Treat Degenerative Arthritis After Stroke?

Can degenerative arthritis be treated with PRP?

Hello Dr.
Shih,
Last March, I brought my father to Miaoli Hospital for a total hip replacement surgery performed by you, and he has been recovering well since then.
Thank you, Dr.
Shih.
However, on December 3rd of last year, my father suffered a hemorrhagic stroke affecting the left side of his brain, resulting in paralysis of his right limbs.
After some time in rehabilitation, he has regained slight strength in his right leg, but he needs to use a cane to walk.
Due to the weakness in his right leg, he relies almost entirely on his left leg for balance.

During this month's rehabilitation process, we discovered that his left knee has been experiencing pain.
He visited the Keelung Hospital, where the doctor diagnosed him with mild degenerative arthritis, likely due to overuse of the left leg following the stroke.
I would like to ask if PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injection therapy could be a viable treatment option.
If so, could you please recommend hospitals in Keelung or nearby that offer this treatment? Thank you very much!

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/28

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Degenerative joint disease can be treated with medications, with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) being the first choice.
Additionally, glucosamine supplements can be taken for support.
Hyaluronic acid injections may also be considered.
If these options are insufficient, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can be contemplated.
Major hospitals, including National Taiwan University Hospital, typically offer these treatments, but an appointment is required in advance.

Reply Date: 2017/06/28

More Info

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has gained attention in recent years as a potential treatment for various musculoskeletal conditions, including degenerative arthritis. In the context of your father's situation, where he has developed mild degenerative arthritis in his left knee following a stroke that resulted in reliance on that leg, PRP therapy could be a viable option to consider.

PRP therapy involves the extraction of a patient's blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting this platelet-rich plasma into the affected area. The rationale behind this treatment is that platelets contain growth factors that can promote healing and tissue regeneration. In cases of degenerative arthritis, PRP may help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and potentially slow down the progression of cartilage degeneration.

Research has shown that PRP can be effective in treating knee osteoarthritis, particularly in patients who have not yet reached advanced stages of the disease. For individuals like your father, who are experiencing early signs of degenerative arthritis, PRP may provide symptomatic relief and improve function. However, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of PRP can vary from person to person, and not all patients will experience the same level of improvement.

Before proceeding with PRP therapy, it is crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional who specializes in musculoskeletal disorders. This evaluation should include imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess the extent of the degenerative changes in the knee. Based on this assessment, the physician can determine whether PRP therapy is appropriate for your father's specific condition.

In terms of availability, many hospitals and clinics offer PRP therapy, but it is advisable to check with local healthcare providers in Keelung or nearby areas. Major hospitals often have specialized orthopedic or rehabilitation departments that provide PRP treatments. It is recommended to consult with your father's primary care physician or the orthopedic surgeon who performed his hip replacement surgery for referrals to qualified facilities that offer PRP therapy.

In addition to PRP therapy, other treatment options for degenerative arthritis include physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle modifications such as weight management and low-impact exercises. Physical therapy can be particularly beneficial in strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving stability, and enhancing overall function.

In conclusion, PRP therapy may be a suitable option for your father's mild degenerative arthritis, especially considering his unique circumstances following a stroke. However, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the best course of action. Exploring multiple treatment modalities, including PRP, physical therapy, and medication, can provide a well-rounded approach to managing his condition and improving his quality of life.

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